Every year, Parkinson Society British Columbia (PSBC) dedicates the month of April to raising awareness of the unique experiences of people with Parkinson’s, and the needs of our community. Parkinson’s Awareness Month is an opportunity to engage the public in expanding their understanding of Parkinson’s, and the profound effects it has on the lives of over 17,500 British Columbians living with the disease.
This April, we want to spread the message that Parkinson’s is more than a tremor. The disease can affect all aspects of one’s life, and there is currently no known cure.
Our campaign highlights include:
- Personal journeys shared by people with Parkinson’s, their families, and carepartners.
- The importance of living well with Parkinson’s, through self-management, self-reliance, and self-advocacy.
- Community ties and peer support bringing together the Parkinson’s community across British Columbia.
While most people have heard of Parkinson’s disease, the breadth of symptoms experienced, and ripple effect the disease has on friends, family, and the healthcare system, are lesser understood. With approximately 17,500 people affected by the condition, Parkinson’s is the second most common neurological disorder after Alzheimer’s – yet it receives considerably less attention.
Throughout April, we will be posting to our social media channels, so be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
How can I participate?
Whether you are a person with Parkinson’s disease, carepartner, friend, or family member, we invite you tell your story, and help spread the word that Parkinson’s is #MoreThanATremor!
This April, we are encouraging British Columbians affected by Parkinson’s to submit content that tells their story, their way.
Whether it is through painting, poetry, or some other medium, we believe that the unique voices of our community members deserve amplifying.
Your support is crucial to our mission of providing resources and services to enable self-management, self-reliance, and self-advocacy. Every donation, no matter the size, helps us to expand awareness and empower the Parkinson’s community in British Columbia. Together, we can make a difference.
Awareness Videos
Parkinson’s disease (PD) has a wide range of symptoms that vary from person to person and can change over time. However, there is a lack of awareness in society about the condition’s impact on those who live with it every day. Despite the challenges, people with Parkinson’s can lead fulfilling lives with medication, therapy, and support from loved ones and medical professionals. For April Awareness Month, Parkinson Society BC created these videos featuring individuals in the community, to raise awareness about Parkinson’s symptoms and challenges.
Jeanette
Originally misdiagnosed with a serious form of parkinsonism called multiple system atrophy in 2017, Jeanette and her loving family celebrated a revised diagnosis of Parkinson’s, as it meant hope for the future. On April 11, World Parkinson’s Day, in 2023, Jeanette underwent Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery, which has given her significant improvements in her symptoms, as well as a new lease on life.
Jim
Diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD) at the age of 30, Jim refuses to let it hinder his pursuits. He continues to passionately engage in his hobby of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and trains his German Shepherd, Hachiko, in the sport of herding. Jim’s resilience exemplifies that a Parkinson’s diagnosis does not define the vibrancy of one’s life.
Sandra & Gary
The Langley couple have three children and are doting dog owners to their pup, Daisy. Gary was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in the fall of 2007, and while they have had to adapt to his limitations, they have met every challenge head on as a united front. Sandra’s story highlights the unique carepartner perspective in navigating the Parkinson’s journey together.
Proclamations
Parkinson Society BC submits requests to municipalities for the issue of proclamations acknowledging April as Parkinson’s Awareness Month. A proclamation is an official declaration issued by an authority to make certain announcements known. Some municipalities do not issue these documents.
Coming soon!
Community Partners
Organizations across the province are showing their support for Parkinson’s Awareness Month by sharing stories, making public services announcements, and lighting up their landmarks this April! Parkinson Society British Columbia is grateful for the support of all of our community partners this year. Learn more about our partners and how they’re supporting us below.
Coming soon!
Media Partners
Coming soon
Radio
Coming soon
Library Displays
Coming soon
Landmark Lighting
Coming soon
Press Release and Fact Sheet
To learn more about Parkinson’s disease, as well as our April Awareness campaign goals, please download the following documents:
- Press Release [coming soon]
- Fact Sheet [coming soon]
Questions or Comments?
If you have questions or comments about #MoreThanATremor or any of PSBC’s awareness activities, please contact:
Mirela Prime
Marketing & Communications,
Senior Coordinator
mprime@parkinson.bc.ca
1-800-668-3330 ext. 256
Alicia Wrobel
Director,
Communications & Operations
awrobel@parkinson.bc.ca
1-800-668-3330 ext. 237